James Pearce Jr is one of the hottest names in college football and a top contender for the 2025 NFL Draft. Known for his explosive athleticism, elite pass-rushing skills, and relentless motor, the Tennessee Volunteers standout is gaining national attention from both college fans and NFL scouts alike.
In this article, we’ll cover everything about James Pearce Jr — from his rise at Tennessee to why he’s a projected first-round pick. Whether you’re following the NFL draft prospects in 2025 or scouting breakout stars, Pearce is one to watch.
Who is James Pearce Jr?
James Pearce Jr is a dynamic edge rusher playing for the University of Tennessee. Born in Charlotte, North Carolina, Pearce has rapidly developed into one of the SEC’s most feared defenders thanks to his size, speed, and knack for disrupting plays in the backfield.
Quick Facts:
Position: Edge Rusher / DE
Height: 6’5”
Weight: 242 lbs
College: Tennessee Volunteers
Hometown: Charlotte, North Carolina
Draft Class: 2025
James Pearce Jr’s Rise at Tennessee
Pearce came to Tennessee as a four-star recruit and quickly made waves. While his freshman season showed flashes, it was his sophomore year in 2023 that put him on the national radar.
Freshman Year (2022):
11 games played
5 total tackles
Developmental year with key snaps
Sophomore Breakout (2023):
10 sacks
14 tackles for loss
2 forced fumbles
Second-Team All-SEC honors
Pearce’s 2023 season turned him into a defensive cornerstone for Tennessee — and a name NFL scouts started circling.
For more breakout player coverage, check out Leeds Journal’s spotlight on Bhayshul Tuten, another college star on the rise.
Why James Pearce Jr is a Top NFL Prospect
James Pearce Jr’s draft stock is climbing fast, and here’s why he’s considered one of the most dangerous pass rushers heading into the 2024 college season:
Elite First Step
Pearce explodes off the line of scrimmage. His speed and timing make him a nightmare for offensive tackles.
Versatile Skill Set
He’s equally effective standing up or putting his hand in the dirt. Pearce fits 3-4 and 4-3 defensive systems — a major plus for NFL scouts.
Football IQ
Pearce reads plays well, times his rushes precisely, and adjusts mid-play. His instincts are advanced for his age.
Relentless Motor
Like Jevon Holland, another young NFL standout, Pearce never gives up on a play — whether it’s a sack, pursuit tackle, or chasing down a screen.
Length and Flexibility
He uses his long arms and lean frame to bend around blocks and get low around the edge.
2024 Outlook: Can Pearce Cement Top-10 Draft Status?
With two college seasons under his belt, all eyes are on what Pearce will deliver in 2024. NFL general managers will be watching to see if he can dominate against double teams and show growth as a run defender.
Keys to Watch:
Improved strength and run-stopping ability
Leadership on the Tennessee defense
Continued sack production
Big-game performances vs SEC rivals
Check out how fellow 2025 draft hopeful Tate Ratledge is preparing for his season to get a sense of the competition Pearce faces.
NFL Draft Projection: Where Could Pearce Land?
As it stands, Pearce is widely projected as a first-round pick. Some analysts have him as high as No. 5 overall, depending on team needs and his performance this fall.
Possible Fits:
Teams with weak edge depth
3-4 schemes in need of an outside linebacker
Franchises rebuilding their defense (e.g. Cardinals, Falcons)
NFL franchises like the Jaguars — who are balancing major contracts like the Josh Allen contract situation — could be looking to add cheap, young pass rushers like Pearce.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
High ceiling, still developing
Great pass-rush tools
Can drop into coverage
Excellent pursuit and energy
Weaknesses:
Needs to bulk up to handle stronger tackles
Must improve play recognition in the run game
Occasionally over-pursues
Player Comparisons
Many experts compare Pearce to some of today’s elite edge rushers:
Brian Burns (Giants): Explosiveness and body type
Will Anderson Jr. (Texans): Disruptive presence
Montez Sweat (Bears): Long-limbed and quick
Like Josh Downs, Pearce is a 2025 prospect getting buzz for his ability to change the game on any snap.
James Pearce Jr’s Stats (Updated)
| Season | Games | Sacks | TFL | Total Tackles | Forced Fumbles |
| 2022 | 11 | 0.5 | 1 | 5 | 0 |
| 2023 | 13 | 10 | 14 | 37 | 2 |
| Career | 24 | 10.5 | 15 | 42 | 2 |
Look for these numbers to spike again in 2024.
Off the Field: The Man Behind the Pads
Off the field, Pearce is quiet and focused. Coaches praise his work ethic, and teammates describe him as a “locker room leader in the making.”
Personal Notes:
Majoring in communications
Enjoys film study and gaming
Close to family and his Charlotte roots
He’s got a similar off-field maturity to players like Jerome Ford — quiet, driven, and professional beyond his years.
How James Pearce Jr Compares to Other 2025 Draft Stars
The 2025 NFL Draft is loaded with talent, but Pearce is near the top of the defensive class. With a breakout season, he could climb even higher than some of his peers.
For a broader look at this year’s class, explore our breakdown of the top 2025 NFL Draft prospects.
Also keep an eye on how NFL teams use free agency and the NFL free agency start timeline to address pass-rushing needs. It may shift Pearce’s landing spot in next year’s draft.
Final thoughts
James Pearce Jr is the kind of player who can change a defense — fast, smart, and still getting better. His 2023 season proved he’s more than just raw talent; he’s a polished, dangerous edge rusher with NFL star written all over him.
Whether you’re tracking college football’s best or keeping tabs on potential impact rookies, Pearce should be on your radar. If he takes another leap in 2024, expect his name to be called early in the 2025 NFL Draft.
For more insight into rising stars and in-depth player analysis, visit Liverpool Reporter and Leeds Journal.
FAQs
Who is James Pearce Jr?
James Pearce Jr is a top defensive end for the Tennessee Volunteers. He’s projected to be a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft thanks to his speed and pass-rushing ability.
What position does he play?
He plays edge rusher, which is a hybrid role between defensive end and outside linebacker, focusing mainly on pressuring the quarterback.
How tall is James Pearce Jr?
Pearce is 6’5” and weighs approximately 242 pounds — a prototypical frame for modern edge defenders.
What are James Pearce Jr’s college stats?
As of 2023, Pearce has totaled over 10 sacks, 15 tackles for loss, and 2 forced fumbles in his college career.
Where is he projected in the NFL Draft?
He’s currently projected as a top-10 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, depending on team needs and his 2024 season performance.
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